Street
moll buzzer
What does moll buzzer mean?
A moll buzzer is a pickpocket or thief who specifically targets women, considered a low form of thief in underworld hierarchy.
"No self-respecting cannon wanted to be called a moll buzzer."
Origin
American cant; 'moll' (woman) plus 'buzzer' (pickpocket).
Frequently asked questions
What is a 'moll buzzer'?
A moll buzzer is a pickpocket or thief who specifically targets women. It was considered a low form of thief in the underworld hierarchy.
Where does 'moll buzzer' come from?
It is American cant, combining 'moll' meaning a woman with 'buzzer' meaning a pickpocket.
Why was a moll buzzer looked down on?
Robbing women was seen as easy and dishonourable work among thieves, so even a skilled pickpocket bristled at being called a moll buzzer.
Study it as flashcards or scroll it in Vocabulary Flow — saved to your collection.